Day of the Dead
Why Day of the Dead
Day of the Dead is a holiday juggernaut in cities, towns and villages across Mexico. But Oaxaca has them beat. Its multi-day festivities offer a side of culture and tradition you won’t see anywhere else—or at any other time. Explore one of the epicenters of celebration and ring in Oaxaca’s biggest and boldest holiday of the year, with access to people and places you simply won't find anywhere else.
Moments That Matter
Be a part of it all, with a unique insider's perspective. Learn the traditions from local artists who invite you into their studios, and from local families who'll welcome you into their celebrations as they build and decorate ofrendas (altars) in homes and at family cemeteries. Feast on delicious foods, taste the finest mezcals, commune with a holiday that is truly about life, in all its vibrant and mesmerizing joy.
Your Private Experience
Who It’s For
Lively, uproarious and a joyful celebration of life. Day of the Dead in Oaxaca is for anybody who appreciate cultural connections and really, really good food.
When to Travel
Day of the Dead is a multi-day celebration starting October 30 and running through November 2 (All Soul's Day). Parades and processions fill the days prior to the festival.
Make It Yours
There is so much to see and experience in Oaxaca, let us craft your unforgettable celebration... and maybe add a few days in Mexico City or beachside to unwind.
Day by Day
Oaxaca packs in so much of the complex, fascinating culture of Mexico. Experience it all with rare access to private homes, mezcalerias, artist studios, and with the families who make it truly special.
Where We Sleep
Our small boutique hotels are a peaceful oasis in Oaxaca City, and the ideal ways to get acquainted with local life.
Oaxaca City
Our home base for the festivities is an easy walk to Oaxaca City’s bustling and beautiful zocalo and city center. It’s the perfect place to feel like we’re in the midst of the Day of the Dead action.
People Love MO/AD's Oaxaca
I loved eating goat just after it was lifted from the pit, sipping on a mezcal.
This is more than just a trip. It’s authentic and joyful, and a powerful reminder of why we travel.
The meals made for us in local homes were just heavenly.
FAQs
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How many people is this itinerary suitable for?
We can plan a custom, private departure for any group size. Our custom trips are perfect for a couple wishing to travel on their own, a family, or a multi-generational group. If you’re looking to travel on one of our group departures on a private basis, a minimum number of travelers may apply.
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Can you curate an itinerary for a larger group?
Yes, we can craft an unforgettable milestone celebration or company retreat for groups as large as 40 or more.
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What makes a MO/AD experience different?
Our level of curation, care, and in-country connections. We handle everything, overseeing your experience from beginning to end with the highest levels of ownership and responsibility. We support you every step of the way with comprehensive itineraries, detailed day-by-day descriptions, insider destination info, and 24/7 dedicated support.
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How far in advance should I plan my trip?
Day of the Dead is one of the busiest times of the year in Oaxaca. We recommend you book six to nine months in advance, as we stay in unique, in-demand boutique and luxury hotels where advance reservations are important to secure the best accommodations possible.
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What is typically included?
We curate your MO/AD Private Departure to ensure the experiences are authentic, immersive, and included in your trip price. Your itinerary typically includes accommodations, airport transfers, private transportation for all day trips and excursions, privately guided tours with local guides, exclusive VIP access and activities, and meals as detailed in your itinerary.
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How much will it cost?
MO/AD Private Departures typically cost $750 to $1,500 per person, per day, and vary by destination, time of year, number of people in your group, and types of activities you prefer.
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What's not included?
MO/AD Private Departures do not include roundtrip airfare to/from your destination, travel insurance, gratuities for local guides, hotel incidentals, and any activities and meals not included in your itinerary.
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What deposits are required?
After learning more about you, your interests, preferred style of travel, dates, and budget, we will present you with initial ideas and examples of what we can plan for you. In order to design a detailed itinerary and check availability, there is a $500 non-refundable planning deposit due. This will be applied to your final trip cost. Once your itinerary is perfect, we require a 25% non-refundable confirmation deposit to start confirming all of your arrangements. Many of our local partners and hotels require additional advance deposits to secure the best accommodations. The balance of your trip cost is due 90 days prior to travel.
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What travel documents are needed?
US citizens are not required to have a visa for tourist visits to Mexico, but are required to show a valid US passport. It is recommended that your passport is valid for six months after your travels are over. On arrival in the airport, you will be issued a visitor’s permit, known as a FMM (Forma Migratoria Multiple). For citizens of other countries, please check with the Mexico Embassy or Consulate for information and requirements.
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Where can I find the complete terms of my booking?
See our Terms & Conditions for complete details about our policies regarding your MO/AD Private Departure booking.